A distinctive spineless cactus shaped like a star of broad ribs, dusted with tiny white woolly scales over a grey-green body, opening yellow flowers from its crown. An elegant, geometric collector's plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 20 cm H × 10 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Bishop's Cap Cactus
Astrophytum myriostigma is a slow-growing succulent in the Cactaceae family. It reaches around 20 cm tall and 10 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Yellow flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Bishop's Cap Cactus
Bishop's Cap Cactus suits arid and semi-arid and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Bishop's Cap Cactus does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Bishop's Cap Cactus is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Bishop's Cap Cactus after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Bishop's Cap Cactus in the garden
Bishop's Cap Cactus earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Bishop's Cap Cactus with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Bishop's Cap Cactus
Plant Sale lists Bishop's Cap Cactus as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.